Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-09-27DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100774
Brian J McMahon , Janet M Johnston , Lesleigh Kowalski , Mary Snowball , Michael G Bruce , Nathan Furukawa , Karen Miernyk , Lisa Townshend-Bulson
Objectives
In the US, hepatitis B virus (HBV) is only endemic in western Alaska, where 90% of the population are Alaska Native (AN) peoples; in the 1970s, the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in children was the highest in the world. In the 1980s, we screened 53,860 AN peoples for HBV infection, administered HBV vaccine to 43,618 HBV seronegative persons, and initiated universal newborn vaccination. In this study, we examine the impact of this effort 40 years later.
Methods
This is a population-based outcome study. We used vaccine and electronic health records to examine rates of newborn vaccination between 2015 and 2019 and changes in HBV incidence rates, as well as the prevalence of HCC in persons under 30 years of age over a 50-year period.
Results
Between 2015 and 2019, approximately 90% of newborns received an HBV birth dose, and over 80% received a second HBV vaccine dose by 18 months of age. Annual incidence of new hepatitis B surface antigen-positive tests among AN peoples ranged from 1.4-2.6 per 100,000, down from 6.2 between 1993 and 1997. No hepatitis B surface antigen-positive or HCC cases have been identified in AN peoples under 20 since 1993.
Conclusions
Mass population-based vaccination of seronegative persons, with continuing universal newborn immunization, halted transmission of HBV in western Alaska.
{"title":"Elimination of Hepatitis B virus transmission in an endemic area in Western Alaska","authors":"Brian J McMahon , Janet M Johnston , Lesleigh Kowalski , Mary Snowball , Michael G Bruce , Nathan Furukawa , Karen Miernyk , Lisa Townshend-Bulson","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100774","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100774","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>In the US, hepatitis B virus (HBV) is only endemic in western Alaska, where 90% of the population are Alaska Native (AN) peoples; in the 1970s, the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in children was the highest in the world. In the 1980s, we screened 53,860 AN peoples for HBV infection, administered HBV vaccine to 43,618 HBV seronegative persons, and initiated universal newborn vaccination. In this study, we examine the impact of this effort 40 years later.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This is a population-based outcome study. We used vaccine and electronic health records to examine rates of newborn vaccination between 2015 and 2019 and changes in HBV incidence rates, as well as the prevalence of HCC in persons under 30 years of age over a 50-year period.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Between 2015 and 2019, approximately 90% of newborns received an HBV birth dose, and over 80% received a second HBV vaccine dose by 18 months of age. Annual incidence of new hepatitis B surface antigen-positive tests among AN peoples ranged from 1.4-2.6 per 100,000, down from 6.2 between 1993 and 1997. No hepatitis B surface antigen-positive or HCC cases have been identified in AN peoples under 20 since 1993.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Mass population-based vaccination of seronegative persons, with continuing universal newborn immunization, halted transmission of HBV in western Alaska.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100774"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145321256","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The recent study by Hajipour and Valizadeh reveals a high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in fingernail debris across occupational and demographic groups in Iran. In this letter, we contextualize their findings with global evidence, highlighting the significance of fingernails as hidden reservoirs of parasitic transmission. We propose the integration of fingernail hygiene—specifically, nail trimming and handwashing—into public health interventions, particularly, in endemic and underserved communities. Emphasizing the One Health approach, we underscore the potential of this low-cost strategy in controlling human and zoonotic parasitic infections.
{"title":"Letter to the Editor: elevating fingernail hygiene in parasitic disease prevention — implications from Hajipour and Valizadeh’s study","authors":"Nathkapach Kaewpitoon Rattanapitoon , Chutharat Thanchonnang , Schawanya Kaewpitoon Rattanapitoon","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100762","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100762","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The recent study by Hajipour and Valizadeh reveals a high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in fingernail debris across occupational and demographic groups in Iran. In this letter, we contextualize their findings with global evidence, highlighting the significance of fingernails as hidden reservoirs of parasitic transmission. We propose the integration of fingernail hygiene—specifically, nail trimming and handwashing—into public health interventions, particularly, in endemic and underserved communities. Emphasizing the One Health approach, we underscore the potential of this low-cost strategy in controlling human and zoonotic parasitic infections.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100762"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145267912","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Vaccines against COVID-19 significantly reduced symptomatic disease and hospitalization. However, waning and diminished protection against emerging variants of concern (VoCs) have warranted booster doses. Clinical studies comparing homologous and heterologous boosters demonstrate enhanced immunogenicity and breakthrough-infection control with heterologous regimens. In this context, we evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of a single heterologous CORBEVAX™ booster in adults in a prospective phase III, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
Methods
Adults (18-80 years) previously primed ≥6 months earlier with two doses of COVISHIELD™ or COVAXIN™ were randomized 3:1 within each prime group to receive CORBEVAX™ or placebo. Study endpoints included safety, reactogenicity, tolerability, and humoral/cellular immunogenicity.
Results
A total of 416 participants (208 per prime group) were enrolled. Post-CORBEVAX™ booster, we observed enhanced humoral responses—significantly increased neutralizing-antibody titers and anti-receptor-binding domain immunoglobulin G—and a T helper 1-skewed cellular response with increased interferon-gamma secretion. A superior post-booster neutralization response against the Omicron VoC was also observed. Adverse events were primarily mild-to-moderate (no adverse events of special interest) with a booster safety profile comparable to placebo. One serious adverse event occurred and was deemed unrelated to the booster.
Conclusions
In conclusion, heterologous boosting with CORBEVAX™ substantially enhanced humoral and cellular immunity against SARS-CoV-2 VoCs while being well tolerated.
{"title":"Immunogenicity and safety of Biological E’s CORBEVAX™ vaccine as a heterologous booster dose in adult volunteers previously vaccinated with two doses of either COVISHIELD™ or COVAXIN: A prospective double-blind randomized phase III clinical study","authors":"Subhash Thuluva , Vikram Paradkar , SubbaReddy Gunneri , Vijay Yerroju , Rammohan Reddy Mogulla , Kamal Thammireddy , Siddalingaiah Ningaiah , Chirag Dhar , Akshay Binayke , Aymaan Zaheer , Amit Awasthi , Shiva Narang , Naveen Chander Reddy , Anil Kumar Pandey , Chitta Sitaram Anjaneylu","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100786","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100786","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Vaccines against COVID-19 significantly reduced symptomatic disease and hospitalization. However, waning and diminished protection against emerging variants of concern (VoCs) have warranted booster doses. Clinical studies comparing homologous and heterologous boosters demonstrate enhanced immunogenicity and breakthrough-infection control with heterologous regimens. In this context, we evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of a single heterologous CORBEVAX™ booster in adults in a prospective phase III, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Adults (18-80 years) previously primed ≥6 months earlier with two doses of COVISHIELD™ or COVAXIN™ were randomized 3:1 within each prime group to receive CORBEVAX™ or placebo. Study endpoints included safety, reactogenicity, tolerability, and humoral/cellular immunogenicity.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 416 participants (208 per prime group) were enrolled. Post-CORBEVAX™ booster, we observed enhanced humoral responses—significantly increased neutralizing-antibody titers and anti-receptor-binding domain immunoglobulin G—and a T helper 1-skewed cellular response with increased interferon-gamma secretion. A superior post-booster neutralization response against the Omicron VoC was also observed. Adverse events were primarily mild-to-moderate (no adverse events of special interest) with a booster safety profile comparable to placebo. One serious adverse event occurred and was deemed unrelated to the booster.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>In conclusion, heterologous boosting with CORBEVAX™ substantially enhanced humoral and cellular immunity against SARS-CoV-2 VoCs while being well tolerated.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100786"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145416916","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Objectives: In India, 6-12 million people experience chronic hepatitis C infection, which can lead to complications such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite free diagnostic and treatment services under the national program, treatment initiation is frequently delayed, and patient retention is sub-optimal. The study aims to identify the factors influencing the cascade of care and assess the predictors of treatment success.
Methods: A hospital-based prospective longitudinal study was conducted among adult patients with hepatitis C. All patients with a detectable viral load who chose to initiate treatment in our center were enrolled and prescribed direct-acting antiviral drugs. They were observed throughout the treatment, and sustained viral response was measured at 12 weeks post-treatment. Data were analyzed using suitable statistical tests and a multivariable logistic regression to find the predictors of treatment success.
Results: Of 761 patients who screened positive for viral hepatitis, 600 had detectable hepatitis C virus RNA. Among the 600 patients, only 64.27% (385) initiated the treatment. Of 385 patients, 77.4% underwent a viral load assay within 1 week of the screening test, whereas 78.4% started treatment within 1 month of hepatitis C virus RNA detection. Although 78.9% of patients completed the treatment, only 52.9% of patients underwent Sustained Viral Response testing. Among those tested, 92.6% achieved Sustained Viral Response. Age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.95; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.92-0.98), intravenous drug use (AOR: 0.18; 95% CI: 0.06-0.52), cirrhosis (AOR: 0.28; 95% CI: 0.10-0.77), and Serum albumin levels (AOR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.02-4.12) emerged as significant predictors of treatment success.
Conclusions: Significant attrition of patients from screening to Sustained Viral Response testing highlights the gaps in the care continuum. Delayed diagnosis and treatment initiation further exacerbate the situation. Despite these challenges, direct-acting antivirals offer hope for successful treatment. Age, intravenous drug use, cirrhosis, and S. albumin levels emerged as significant predictors of treatment success.
{"title":"Understanding the cascade of care and predictors of treatment success among patients with hepatitis C - A prospective study at a tertiary care center in India","authors":"Sunvir Kaur Rai , Simmi Oberoi , Amandev Singh , Harpreet Singh","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100783","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100783","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Objectives:</em> In India, 6-12 million people experience chronic hepatitis C infection, which can lead to complications such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite free diagnostic and treatment services under the national program, treatment initiation is frequently delayed, and patient retention is sub-optimal. The study aims to identify the factors influencing the cascade of care and assess the predictors of treatment success.</div><div><em>Methods:</em> A hospital-based prospective longitudinal study was conducted among adult patients with hepatitis C. All patients with a detectable viral load who chose to initiate treatment in our center were enrolled and prescribed direct-acting antiviral drugs. They were observed throughout the treatment, and sustained viral response was measured at 12 weeks post-treatment. Data were analyzed using suitable statistical tests and a multivariable logistic regression to find the predictors of treatment success.</div><div><em>Results:</em> Of 761 patients who screened positive for viral hepatitis, 600 had detectable hepatitis C virus RNA. Among the 600 patients, only 64.27% (385) initiated the treatment. Of 385 patients, 77.4% underwent a viral load assay within 1 week of the screening test, whereas 78.4% started treatment within 1 month of hepatitis C virus RNA detection. Although 78.9% of patients completed the treatment, only 52.9% of patients underwent Sustained Viral Response testing. Among those tested, 92.6% achieved Sustained Viral Response. Age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.95; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.92-0.98), intravenous drug use (AOR: 0.18; 95% CI: 0.06-0.52), cirrhosis (AOR: 0.28; 95% CI: 0.10-0.77), and Serum albumin levels (AOR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.02-4.12) emerged as significant predictors of treatment success.</div><div><em>Conclusions:</em> Significant attrition of patients from screening to Sustained Viral Response testing highlights the gaps in the care continuum. Delayed diagnosis and treatment initiation further exacerbate the situation. Despite these challenges, direct-acting antivirals offer hope for successful treatment. Age, intravenous drug use, cirrhosis, and S. albumin levels emerged as significant predictors of treatment success.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100783"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145416966","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study analyzes fifteen years of nationwide trends and regional disparities in tuberculosis (TB) and HIV diagnostics in Brazil, examining the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the uneven recovery of diagnostic services across different regions.
Methods
This nationwide ecological study analyzed monthly data on TB and HIV diagnostic tests performed in Brazil from 2010 to 2024, utilizing real-world data. Temporal trends and interrupted time-series analyses evaluated the immediate and progressive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Spatial patterns and autocorrelation were explored using bivariate Moran’s I and Kernel density estimation.
Results
Results showed significant abrupt declines during the COVID-19 pandemic for smear microscopy (–16.4%), culture (–21.4%), and HIV (–16.2%). Post-pandemic, Xpert MTB/RIF showed the highest monthly increase (+3.8%; 95% confidence interval: 2.9-4.7), while smear microscopy declined (–1.2%; 95% confidence interval: –2.0 to –0.5). Spatial analysis revealed pronounced regional heterogeneity, with Northern and Northeastern municipalities facing the greatest disruptions. The Xpert MTB/RIF test demonstrated greater resilience, with evident growth in its distribution and implementation over time. However, this increase resulted in a decrease in the conduction of smear microscopy tests and highlighted territorial disparities, since only 167 municipalities (3%) have Xpert MTB/RIF assays, mainly in the Southeast.
Conclusions
COVID-19 significantly disrupted traditional TB and HIV diagnostics in Brazil, while there was an evident increase and resilience of Xpert MTB/RIF, reducing the use of smear microscopy tests. Policy efforts should prioritize the equitable expansion of molecular diagnostic technologies across all regions. This approach will improve early TB detection and drug resistance testing, thereby reducing diagnostic disparities and strengthening health system resilience toward achieving the End TB Strategy.
{"title":"Fifteen years of tuberculosis and HIV diagnostic services in Brazil: disruption, regional disparities, and recovery before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic","authors":"Luanne Karolyne Leal dos Santos , Yan Mathias Alves , Reginaldo Bazon Vaz Tavares , Marcela Antunes Paschoal Popolin , Nathalia Zini , Ione Carvalho Pinto , Pedro Fredemir Palha , Aline Aparecida Monroe , Erica Chimara , Ricardo Alexandre Arcêncio","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100796","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100796","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>This study analyzes fifteen years of nationwide trends and regional disparities in tuberculosis (TB) and HIV diagnostics in Brazil, examining the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the uneven recovery of diagnostic services across different regions.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This nationwide ecological study analyzed monthly data on TB and HIV diagnostic tests performed in Brazil from 2010 to 2024, utilizing real-world data. Temporal trends and interrupted time-series analyses evaluated the immediate and progressive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Spatial patterns and autocorrelation were explored using bivariate Moran’s I and Kernel density estimation.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Results showed significant abrupt declines during the COVID-19 pandemic for smear microscopy (–16.4%), culture (–21.4%), and HIV (–16.2%). Post-pandemic, Xpert MTB/RIF showed the highest monthly increase (+3.8%; 95% confidence interval: 2.9-4.7), while smear microscopy declined (–1.2%; 95% confidence interval: –2.0 to –0.5). Spatial analysis revealed pronounced regional heterogeneity, with Northern and Northeastern municipalities facing the greatest disruptions. The Xpert MTB/RIF test demonstrated greater resilience, with evident growth in its distribution and implementation over time. However, this increase resulted in a decrease in the conduction of smear microscopy tests and highlighted territorial disparities, since only 167 municipalities (3%) have Xpert MTB/RIF assays, mainly in the Southeast.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>COVID-19 significantly disrupted traditional TB and HIV diagnostics in Brazil, while there was an evident increase and resilience of Xpert MTB/RIF, reducing the use of smear microscopy tests. Policy efforts should prioritize the equitable expansion of molecular diagnostic technologies across all regions. This approach will improve early TB detection and drug resistance testing, thereby reducing diagnostic disparities and strengthening health system resilience toward achieving the End TB Strategy.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100796"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145571599","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-08-15DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100732
Abdou Fatawou Modiyinji , Huguette Tchetgna Simo , Aristide Mounchili-Njifon , Moise Henri Moumbeket-Yifomnjou , Lionel Franklin Djomo , Damaris Ngo Yabi , Justine Gwendolyne Odi , Gisèle Liliane Machuetum , Abanda Njei Ngu , Richard Njouom
Objectives
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and genetic diversity of viral hepatitis among clinical cases of acute febrile jaundice initially suspected to be yellow fever (YF).
Methods
We conducted a prospective cross-sectional study on YF-negative suspected samples collected between September 2024 and January 2025. The pentaplex polymerase chain reaction assay was used to detect five hepatotropic viruses. All detected viruses were genotyped, sequenced, and phylogenetically analyzed.
Results
Among the 404 participants tested, viral hepatitis was diagnosed in 107 (26.5%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 22.4–31.0%). The proportions were: hepatitis A virus (HAV) 70.1% (75/107), hepatitis B virus (HBV) 23.4% (25/107), hepatitis C virus (HCV) 3.7% (4/107), and hepatitis E virus (HEV) 2.8% (3/107). No sample was positive for hepatitis D virus, and no dual viral infections were detected. HAV was most common in patients under 15 years of age, while HBV was most common in patients aged over 15. The genotypes identified were HAV-IB and HAV-IIA, HBV-A and E, HCV-1 and HCV-4, and HEV-4.
Conclusions
Our study shows that viral hepatitis plays a key role in acute febrile jaundice cases, which are often attributed to the YF virus in Cameroon.
{"title":"Viral hepatitis as a differential diagnosis of yellow fever suspected cases in Cameroon: Prevalence and molecular characterization","authors":"Abdou Fatawou Modiyinji , Huguette Tchetgna Simo , Aristide Mounchili-Njifon , Moise Henri Moumbeket-Yifomnjou , Lionel Franklin Djomo , Damaris Ngo Yabi , Justine Gwendolyne Odi , Gisèle Liliane Machuetum , Abanda Njei Ngu , Richard Njouom","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100732","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100732","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and genetic diversity of viral hepatitis among clinical cases of acute febrile jaundice initially suspected to be yellow fever (YF).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We conducted a prospective cross-sectional study on YF-negative suspected samples collected between September 2024 and January 2025. The pentaplex polymerase chain reaction assay was used to detect five hepatotropic viruses. All detected viruses were genotyped, sequenced, and phylogenetically analyzed.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Among the 404 participants tested, viral hepatitis was diagnosed in 107 (26.5%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 22.4–31.0%). The proportions were: hepatitis A virus (HAV) 70.1% (75/107), hepatitis B virus (HBV) 23.4% (25/107), hepatitis C virus (HCV) 3.7% (4/107), and hepatitis E virus (HEV) 2.8% (3/107). No sample was positive for hepatitis D virus, and no dual viral infections were detected. HAV was most common in patients under 15 years of age, while HBV was most common in patients aged over 15. The genotypes identified were HAV-IB and HAV-IIA, HBV-A and E, HCV-1 and HCV-4, and HEV-4.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Our study shows that viral hepatitis plays a key role in acute febrile jaundice cases, which are often attributed to the YF virus in Cameroon.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100732"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145027759","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-11-16DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100806
Kassim Abdi Jimale, Shafie Abdulkadir Hassan, Abdifetah Ibrahim Omar
{"title":"The urgent need for Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus surveillance in Somalia","authors":"Kassim Abdi Jimale, Shafie Abdulkadir Hassan, Abdifetah Ibrahim Omar","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100806","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100806","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100806"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145684414","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-08-22DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100736
Asma Al Balushi , Zainab Abdul Hameed , Hasina Al Bahri , Zaina Al Maskari , Ahlam Al Balushi , Iman Al Balushi , Sachin Jose , Adil Al Wahaibi , Amina Al-Jardani , Samira Al-Mahruqi , Mohammed Hamed Nasr , Emily Adams , Tom E. Fletcher , Iman Nasr
Objectives
The durability of SARS-CoV-2 antibody response varies with disease severity [1]. Comparative data across diverse clinical settings in the Gulf region are limited. This study assessed the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies over 6 months among hospitalized patients, outpatients, and healthcare workers (HCWs).
Methods
In this prospective cohort study, 356 confirmed COVID-19 cases (123 inpatients, 113 outpatients, and 120 HCWs) were enrolled. Serum IgG titers were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) at baseline (≤14 days post-symptom onset), 4-6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months post-infection. Longitudinal antibody dynamics were analyzed using a linear mixed-effect model adjusting for patient group, age, comorbidities, and symptoms.
Results
Inpatients were older, male, and had more comorbidities, including obesity 54.5% (67 of 123), diabetes mellitus 39% (48 of 123), and hypertension 39.8% (49 of 123), compared with outpatients and HCWs. Peak antibody titers were reached at 4-6 weeks, with gradual decline over the 6-month period after initial infection across all groups (P <0.001). Inpatients demonstrated significantly higher IgG titers at all time points (P <0.001).
Conclusions
Severe COVID-19 infection, older age, and comorbidities were linked to stronger, more durable IgG responses. These findings provide essential baseline data on post–COVID-19 immunity in the Gulf region during early pandemic.
{"title":"Persistence of SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Response across Diverse Clinical Settings in Oman: Insights from a Prospective ELISA-based Study","authors":"Asma Al Balushi , Zainab Abdul Hameed , Hasina Al Bahri , Zaina Al Maskari , Ahlam Al Balushi , Iman Al Balushi , Sachin Jose , Adil Al Wahaibi , Amina Al-Jardani , Samira Al-Mahruqi , Mohammed Hamed Nasr , Emily Adams , Tom E. Fletcher , Iman Nasr","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100736","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100736","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>The durability of SARS-CoV-2 antibody response varies with disease severity [<span><span>1</span></span>]. Comparative data across diverse clinical settings in the Gulf region are limited. This study assessed the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies over 6 months among hospitalized patients, outpatients, and healthcare workers (HCWs).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In this prospective cohort study, 356 confirmed COVID-19 cases (123 inpatients, 113 outpatients, and 120 HCWs) were enrolled. Serum IgG titers were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) at baseline (≤14 days post-symptom onset), 4-6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months post-infection. Longitudinal antibody dynamics were analyzed using a linear mixed-effect model adjusting for patient group, age, comorbidities, and symptoms.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Inpatients were older, male, and had more comorbidities, including obesity 54.5% (67 of 123), diabetes mellitus 39% (48 of 123), and hypertension 39.8% (49 of 123), compared with outpatients and HCWs. Peak antibody titers were reached at 4-6 weeks, with gradual decline over the 6-month period after initial infection across all groups (<em>P</em> <0.001). Inpatients demonstrated significantly higher IgG titers at all time points (<em>P</em> <0.001).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Severe COVID-19 infection, older age, and comorbidities were linked to stronger, more durable IgG responses. These findings provide essential baseline data on post–COVID-19 immunity in the Gulf region during early pandemic.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100736"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145121149","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-09-08DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100749
Nakitto Irene Kisakye , Helena C. Maltezou , Robert Mugarura , Arthur Nek Jonathan , Charles Etyang
Objectives
Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under 5 in Uganda, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas. Village health teams (VHTs) play a pivotal role in community-based malaria diagnosis and treatment, yet their knowledge and practices remain understudied. To assess the knowledge and practice of antimalarial drug use among VHTs for children under 5 years in Kasese District, Uganda.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 102 VHTs using a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize VHT characteristics, knowledge, and practice scores. Chi-square tests were performed to assess associations between socio-demographic characteristics and key dispensing practices. Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 26.
Results
The majority of VHTs demonstrated basic knowledge in antimalarial treatment, with 70.6% routinely checking expiration dates and 76.5% instructing caregivers on when to administer medications. However, fewer VHTs informed caregivers about side effects (21.6%), drug interactions (29.4%), or the effects of herbal medicines (19.6%). Significant associations were found between educational level and multiple dispensing practices (p <0.05), including giving drugs based on rapid diagnostic test results and appropriately addressing caregiver requests.
Conclusions
While VHTs in Kasese District generally adhere to key elements of antimalarial drug administration, gaps persist in their pharmacological knowledge and patient education practices. Strengthening ongoing training and supervision may improve rational antimalarial drug use and treatment outcomes in children under 5 years old.
{"title":"Knowledge and practices of anti-malarial treatment for children under five years among village health teams in Kasese District, Uganda: A cross-sectional study","authors":"Nakitto Irene Kisakye , Helena C. Maltezou , Robert Mugarura , Arthur Nek Jonathan , Charles Etyang","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100749","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100749","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under 5 in Uganda, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas. Village health teams (VHTs) play a pivotal role in community-based malaria diagnosis and treatment, yet their knowledge and practices remain understudied. To assess the knowledge and practice of antimalarial drug use among VHTs for children under 5 years in Kasese District, Uganda.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 102 VHTs using a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize VHT characteristics, knowledge, and practice scores. Chi-square tests were performed to assess associations between socio-demographic characteristics and key dispensing practices. Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 26.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The majority of VHTs demonstrated basic knowledge in antimalarial treatment, with 70.6% routinely checking expiration dates and 76.5% instructing caregivers on when to administer medications. However, fewer VHTs informed caregivers about side effects (21.6%), drug interactions (29.4%), or the effects of herbal medicines (19.6%). Significant associations were found between educational level and multiple dispensing practices (<em>p</em> <0.05), including giving drugs based on rapid diagnostic test results and appropriately addressing caregiver requests.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>While VHTs in Kasese District generally adhere to key elements of antimalarial drug administration, gaps persist in their pharmacological knowledge and patient education practices. Strengthening ongoing training and supervision may improve rational antimalarial drug use and treatment outcomes in children under 5 years old.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100749"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145221684","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-09-15DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100764
Zoungrana Jacques , Kabore D. Odilon , Tonde Issa , Ouattara Cheick Ahmed , Kiodima M.S. Odette , Muhigwa Merci , Diallo Ismael , Sawadogo Yacouba , Poda Armel , Ouedraogo Abdoul-Salam
Objectives
To describe the distribution of Neisseria meningitidis serogroups in bacterial meningitis cases diagnosed by polymerase chain reaction at the Sourô Sanou University Hospital, Bobo-Dioulasso, from 2011 to 2021.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using retrospective data from cerebrospinal fluid samples collected in Bobo-Dioulasso and surrounding districts and analyzed at the National Reference Laboratory for bacterial meningitis.
Results
Among 3823 suspected cases, 3341 samples underwent polymerase chain reaction, confirming 1186 cases (35.5%). The highest number of samples was recorded in 2012 (32.9%), mainly from Dafra district (20.2%). Streptococcus pneumoniae was the leading pathogen (51.9%), followed by N. meningitidis (46.1%) and Haemophilus influenzae type b (1.9%). Most N. meningitidis cases (69.5%) occurred in 2012, declining thereafter, with no cases by 2021. Serogroup W predominated (69.7%), while serogroups A and B were absent.
Conclusions
The results emphasize the need to strengthen epidemiological surveillance and adapt vaccination strategies to achieve meningitis elimination in Africa.
{"title":"Case-based surveillance of bacterial meningitis following MenAfrivac™ introduction at Sourô Sanou University Hospital, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, 2011-2021","authors":"Zoungrana Jacques , Kabore D. Odilon , Tonde Issa , Ouattara Cheick Ahmed , Kiodima M.S. Odette , Muhigwa Merci , Diallo Ismael , Sawadogo Yacouba , Poda Armel , Ouedraogo Abdoul-Salam","doi":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100764","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijregi.2025.100764","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>To describe the distribution of <em>Neisseria meningitidis</em> serogroups in bacterial meningitis cases diagnosed by polymerase chain reaction at the Sourô Sanou University Hospital, Bobo-Dioulasso, from 2011 to 2021.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using retrospective data from cerebrospinal fluid samples collected in Bobo-Dioulasso and surrounding districts and analyzed at the National Reference Laboratory for bacterial meningitis.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Among 3823 suspected cases, 3341 samples underwent polymerase chain reaction, confirming 1186 cases (35.5%). The highest number of samples was recorded in 2012 (32.9%), mainly from Dafra district (20.2%). <em>Streptococcus pneumoniae</em> was the leading pathogen (51.9%), followed by <em>N. meningitidis</em> (46.1%) and <em>Haemophilus influenzae</em> type b (1.9%). Most <em>N. meningitidis</em> cases (69.5%) occurred in 2012, declining thereafter, with no cases by 2021. Serogroup W predominated (69.7%), while serogroups A and B were absent.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The results emphasize the need to strengthen epidemiological surveillance and adapt vaccination strategies to achieve meningitis elimination in Africa.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":73335,"journal":{"name":"IJID regions","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100764"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145268992","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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